Postdoc in Neuroinflammation and Nigrostriatal Assembloids University of Luxembourg in Luxembourg

The University of Luxembourg invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Neuroinflammation and Nigrostriatal Assembloids at the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB). The LCSB is a leading interdisciplinary research centre focused on systems biology and biomedicine, with a strong emphasis on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The centre brings together scientists from over 50 countries, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.

This postdoctoral project aims to characterize patient-derived microglia-integrated nigrostriatal assembloids to investigate neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) and to evaluate therapeutic modulation of neuroinflammatory pathways. The research involves establishing and systematically characterizing microglia-containing nigrostriatal assembloids to dissect the interplay between neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and α-synuclein pathology. Advanced 3D stem cell modeling, neuroimmune interaction studies, high-content imaging, molecular and biochemical analyses, and the evaluation of immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies are central to the project.

Key responsibilities include generation, maintenance, and differentiation of human iPSCs into midbrain and striatum organoids, integration of microglia into assembloid systems, phenotypic characterization of disease-relevant features, advanced microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and testing of candidate compounds. The role also involves contributing to single-nucleus RNA sequencing and transmission electron microscopy workflows, data analysis, manuscript preparation, and presentation of results at international conferences.

Applicants must have a PhD in neuroscience, stem cell biology, neurobiology, molecular biology, or a related field, with strong hands-on experience in human iPSC culture and neural differentiation. Proven expertise in organoid models or complex stem cell-derived systems, a solid background in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, and experience with advanced microscopy and quantitative image analysis are essential. Fluency in English and strong scientific writing skills are required. Additional desirable skills include experience with microglia differentiation, neuroimmune co-culture systems, α-synuclein biology, multi-omics approaches, and data analysis in R or Python.

The position is a fixed-term contract for 30 months, with a yearly gross salary of EUR 85,176. The University of Luxembourg offers a modern, international, and inclusive research environment with high-quality equipment and strong ties to industry and European institutions. The position is based at the Belval Campus.

To apply, submit your application online through the University of Luxembourg HR system, including your CV, cover letter, PhD diploma or expected defense date, transcript of university-level courses, and list of publications. Early application is encouraged as applications are processed upon receipt. Applications by email will not be considered.